Midwest Air Traffic Control Service, based in Overland Park, Kan., runs 69 out of the 149 towers facing closure, Cordes said. Nationwide, about 350 people with the company are facing losing their jobs because of the FAA’s cuts.

Cordes said the funding cuts are devastating to his company and employees.

“The FAA contract tower program has been a shining example of a government industry partnership that has been focused on cost controls while remaining focused on safety and efficiency,” Cordes said.

Such programs should be “mirrored rather than eliminated,” Cordes said.

David Eberly, Lancaster Airport director, said officials need to evaluate the true ramifications of closing so many towers, which would create safety issues.

But Eberly said he’s optimistic there will be some changes to the FAA’s plan.

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